Know Your Penis
The penis is an organ of the male reproductive system and is responsible for several functions, including urination and facilitating sexual intercourse. It contains erectile tissue that can become engorged with blood during sexual arousal, leading to an erection. Furthermore, it plays a crucial role in allowing the transfer of sperm during intercourse.
It consists of three main parts:
Root, which extends through the body of the penis to the tip.
Shaft, the main elongated part.
Glans, the sensitive tip.
Normal penile discharges include semen and pre-ejaculate (pre-cum). White, beige, or yellow discharges could be signs of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or other infections, while a red discharge suggests the presence of urethral conditions. An unusual discharge is usually accompanied with other symptoms, such as a burning sensation while urinating, itchiness, irritation, and discomfort while having sex.
If you notice a change in the color, texture, frequency, or odor of the discharge, or if it is accompanied by discomfort, pain, or other unusual symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical support.
Discovering and understanding your penis and genital area empowers you to have a deeper connection with your body, which can lead to more informed decision-making.
Male Reproductive Anatomy:
Testes: Covered by a sac of skin called the scrotum, the testes produce sperm and hormones (testosterone) in people assigned male at birth.
Epididymis: tube where the sperm mature and are stored.
Vas Deferens: tube that circulates mature sperm during ejaculation.
Seminal Vesicles: glandular structures that produce and provide nutrients and protection for the sperm.
Prostate Gland: secretes a fluid that nourishes and transports the sperm, and makes up part of the semen.
Bulbourethral Glands (Cowper's Glands): secretes a fluid that lubricates the urethra and neutralizes any acids that may remain in the urine.
Penis: the external male reproductive organ through which both urine and semen are expelled.
Bladder: urine reservoir.
Urethra: tube that circulates the urine from the bladder and the semen from the reproductive system outside the body.
Urethra opening: external urethral orifice.
Anus: opening through which the stool leaves the body.
Rectum: the area where the stool is held before being excreted.
Foreskin: retractable skin that protects the head of the penis.
Written by:
Cristel Lahoud | Sexual health educator, midwife
Cristel Lahoud is a sexual health educator at Marsa, holding a Bachelor's degree in Midwifery and currently pursuing a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology. Her profound dedication lies in raising awareness and promoting advocacy for both sexual and reproductive health.